UV Index in Cincinnati, United States

Last updated: June 2, 2025

In Cincinnati, understanding the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health. The UV Index provides crucial information about sun exposure, helping residents prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. With Cincinnati's humid subtropical climate, residents face notable UV risks, especially during peak summer months when indices can soar to levels 10 or higher around midday. Staying informed about UV levels empowers you to enjoy the sun safely while safeguarding your skin's health.

Hourly UV Index in Cincinnati

The UV Index is a dynamic measure of solar intensity throughout the day, peaking dramatically at 12:00 PM with a notable 9, reaching its zenith at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM with a maximum value of 10. During this period, it's essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Early morning hours remain quite low, peaking at just 1 by 08:00 AM, while by 10:00 AM the index climbs to 5. As the sun continues to rise, it climbs swiftly to 7 by 11:00 AM, making midday the crucial time for sunscreen and shade. As the afternoon wanes, the UV Index gradually decreases, falling back to 5 by 5:00 PM, and finally settling at 1 by 7:00 PM, signaling a safe return to outdoor activities. Stay vigilant and enjoy the sunshine safely!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:007high25 min
12:009very high15 min
13:0010very high15 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:009very high15 min
16:007high25 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Cincinnati

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal changes, with the highest levels occurring from April to September. During this peak period, particularly in May, June, and July, the UV Index reaches 10—categorized as very high, necessitating vigilant sun protection measures. Visitors and residents should be particularly cautious in these months, as the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. March marks the transition to high exposure, with an index of 6, while October and November see a decline to moderate levels and longer burn times of 25 to 30 minutes. To safeguard against UV-related health risks, it is essential to wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing, especially during the high-risk months of April to September.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Cincinnati, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Cincinnati. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910101098643
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Cincinnati, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Cincinnati UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Cincinnati compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Cincinnati's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Cincinnati356910101098643
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975